Tips to get your family get through the germiest times of the year

Moms, no matter how diligent you are, you can’t supervise what your kids touch, breathe or swallow 24/7. No one knows this better than me.

Because I’m juggling a busy career with being a home-schooling mom, I’ve been teaching my kids how to stay well. They are learning it’s easier to be proactive than reactive.

With more activities indoors as the temperatures fall, and with a cough and cold season upon us, I am sharing some of my best tips to empower other families to take control over their immune health.

There are many things we can do year-round to support our immune health, not just during winter.

Write your own health prescription

Grab a white board and post your wellness prescription on the refrigerator or in another high-traffic area where everyone will see it daily. Some things to include on your list are:

• Wash your hands.

No splash and dash allowed! While some moms teach their kids to sing the ABC or birthday song, instead try putting on some great music and have a fun time.

• Humidify your air.

Dry winter air can crack the skin and damage our nasal passages, enabling viruses and germs to more easily enter the body and make us sick. Buy a humidifier to keep your indoor spaces moist. Be sure to clean it every five to seven days so it doesn’t grow bacteria.

• Juice up your immune system.

Black elderberries believed to provide natural support for the immune system, and can be enjoyed for year-round immune maintenance. But choose the variety that is backed by science. If you buy homemade elderberry tea or jam, it might help someone with their business but you won’t get the same powerful immune support. Sambucol black elderberry has been tested and the National Institutes of Health said that Sambucol Elderberry Extract demonstrates antiviral properties, and appears to be beneficial to immune system activation. It comes in multiple forms that will please everyone in the family, from syrup and a drink powder to capsules, pastilles and gummies.

• Air filters:

Clean or change your air filters according to the schedule on the filter packaging. Also, have your HVAC professionally clean it at least twice a year to maintain good indoor air quality.

• Kid wise:

Teach your children to use their own utensils and water bottles, not sharing with friends. Help them keep their germs to themselves by labeling their water bottles so there is no confusion.

Self care for moms

Moms, self-care is not getting your nails done or treating yourself to a double-scoop ice cream sundae.

Self-care is the foundation for the things that will help us thrive, and help our bodies do what we intended to do.

Treat your body the way it should be treated! That means prioritizing rest, good nutrition and exercise. Also, don’t skip your health screenings. Stay on top of your health and be a good role model for your family.

By following this health and wellness prescription, you are instilling good habits in your children that will serve them throughout their lives.

When you feel well, you experience more joy in life.